ATV cover

ABSTRACT

A cover for all-terrain vehicle is provided. The cover may also serve as an extra cushion for the vehicle or a seat for carrying into the field.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The popularity of off-road or all-terrain vehicles has increased dramatically. Such vehicles have a wide variety of models and applications that attract both recreational and commercial users. While some may own these vehicles purely for the pleasure of riding, others also purchase for uses such as hunting, fishing, hauling, planting, and necessary transportation over difficult terrain.

[0002] A variety of options and engines sizes are available depending upon the use. For example, these vehicles may be equipped with four wheel drive, power winches, lifts, spotlights, and numerous other features. Some manufacturers even offer engines with a power output comparable to light duty trucks. As all-terrain vehicles are generally a significant investment, many consumers may wish to protect their vehicle from the weather and other elements while not in use.

[0003] All-terrain vehicles offer transportation over terrain that may not be accessible by any other type of powered vehicle. Debris along the pathway, muddy trails, narrow roads, or steep slopes may preclude the use of larger vehicles such a SUVs or four-wheel drive trucks. For hunters and other sportsmen, frequently the best locations for hunting or fishing are not readily accessible and are too far for walking.

[0004] Many hunters use camouflage to avoid spooking the desired game. Whether stalking their game or sitting still for long hours waiting on the desired game to approach, the hunter who hides his presence is likely to increase the chances of a harvest. The need for camouflage applies not only to hunter's person, but also to his gear. Due to the size and generally reflective metal present on all-terrain vehicles, the ability to camouflage or cover these vehicles while hunting is particularly desirable.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0006] The present invention provides a versatile cover for an all-terrain vehicle. The cover may be used to protect the vehicle from the elements and may also provide camouflage for the vehicle. The cover is provided with a pouch into which the cover may be readily inserted. By placing the cover into the pouch, the cover is readily converted into a cushion that may be used on the vehicle, ground, or any other desired surface.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a versatile cover for an all-terrain vehicle is provided having a canopy to which is attached a pouch. The canopy is configured in size and shape for being placed over an all-terrain vehicle so as to provide a cover over all or part of the vehicle as desired. Where the cover will also be used for camouflage, it may be preferable to configure the cover to extend over the entire vehicle—including the tires—so as to hide all of the vehicle from view.

[0008] A pouch is attached to the canopy so that the canopy may be readily folded into the pouch. While in the pouch, the cover may be readily transported and stored, or the cover may serve as a seat cushion on the all-terrain vehicle or any other surface. By attaching the pouch to the canopy, a cover having a single unitary construction is provided. Such a construction helps eliminate an additional piece of gear and ensures that the pouch is always available for converting the cover into a cushion or for ready storage and transport of the cover.

[0009] The cover may be constructed from any one of a variety of materials commercially available. Such materials include, by way of example only, cotton, nylon, polyester, and a variety of blends from natural and manufactured materials. For some applications, it may be desirable to construct the cover from a water-resistant or water-proof material so as to provide further protection from the elements for the all-terrain vehicle. Preferably, the material used is flexible or resilient so that it may be readily draped over the vehicle or folded into the pouch. Generally, both the pouch and canopy are constructed from the same material for convenience in manufacture though this is not a requirement of the present invention.

[0010] The pouch may be reversible in that either side of the pouch may form the exterior depending upon whether the canopy is tucked into the pouch or is pulled out for placement on the vehicle. The pouch is attached to the canopy and an opening in the pouch is provided into which the canopy may be inserted. In certain embodiments, the pouch may have a mechanism for selectively closing the opening so as to retain the canopy within the pouch. Such mechanism may include a zipper, hook and loop fasteners, Velcro®, buttons, and snaps. These serve only as examples; any suitable means for selectively closing the opening to the pouch may be applied.

[0011] The cover can be of any color or include any design on its exterior or interior. For hunting purposes, the cover is preferably provided with camouflage decor on at least one side of the cover. However, the cover may include bright colors and designs as may be attractive to the consumer or desirable in certain commercial or rescue applications.

[0012] Optionally, the cover may be equipped with at least one strap. The strap may be attached to any place on the cover but preferably is attached to the pouch. In this way, the strap allows for ready transport of the pouch when the cover is inserted therein. In addition, the strap may be configured for securing the cover to the all-terrain vehicle to serve as an additional seat cushion. While only one strap may be desirable, the cover may be equipped with multiple configurations of various straps and belts depending upon the application desired.

[0013] Accordingly, the cover may be used to provide a comfortable cushion while riding an all-terrain vehicle. Upon arriving at the desired destination, the canopy may be removed from the pouch and spread over the vehicle to provide protection from the elements and camouflage if desired. Alternatively, the cover may be transported into the field for use as seat cushion on the ground or any other desired surface.

[0014] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention being used as a seat cushion on an all-terrain vehicle.

[0016]FIG. 2 is a close-up perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 being used a seat cushion.

[0017]FIGS. 3A through 3D are perspective views of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018]FIGS. 4A through 4B are perspective views of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019]FIG. 5 is a profile view of part of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0020]FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of part of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0021]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a layout of the embodiment of FIG. 1

[0022]FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views of an embodiment of the present invention being used as a sportsman's seat cushion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Reference now will be made in detail to the embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are set forth in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, and not meant as a limitation of the invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to yield still a further embodiment. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 1 and 2, an embodiment of a versatile cover 10 for an all-terrain vehicle 12 is illustrated. Cover 10 includes a strap 14 for securing cover 10 to vehicle 12 during use. Strap 14 can be looped through rack 16 as shown in FIG. 1 or otherwise attached to vehicle 12 as desired. A latch mechanism 15 is provided for selectively fastening cover 10 using strap 14 as desired. Accordingly, this use of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides an additional seat cushion for support of sportsmen 18 while operating vehicle 12. As shown in FIG. 2, cover 10 can simply be placed over the existing seat 20 of all-terrain vehicle 12.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 3A through 3D, cover 10 includes a canopy 22 that may be enclosed within a pouch 24. Canopy 22 and pouch 24 are attached to each other so as to form a unitary member as will be discussed below. Accordingly, for the exemplary embodiment being discussed, canopy 22 can be readily unfolded from storage within pouch 24 as shown in FIGS. 3B through 3C. After use of the cover 10 to hide or protect vehicle 12, canopy 22 may be readily inserted back into pouch 24 for ready transport and storage of cover 10. This feature is provided as a matter of convenience and efficiency, providing the user with a single piece of equipment having multiple and versatile uses.

[0026] Upon removing canopy 22 from pouch 24, cover 10 may be placed over all-terrain vehicle 12 as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Cover 10 can be configured as desired on vehicle 12 so as to cover either part or all of vehicle 12. A drawstring 26 may be used to securely fasten cover 10 and place around vehicle 12. Drawstring 26 may be constructed from an elastic cord or any other material capable of being drawn tightly around vehicle 12. Alternatively, multiple drawstrings may be configured with cover 10 for securing the canopy 22 in place.

[0027] As shown in FIGS. 4A through 4B, drawstring 26 is positioned along the outer edge 28 of canopy 22. Drawstring 26 includes two locks 30 on opposite ends of canopy 22 enabling the user to tighten and secure drawstring 26 in position. Locks 30 allow drawstring 26 to be pulled tightly around vehicle 12 and then operate to hold drawstring 26 in position.

[0028] For this particular use of the exemplary embodiment being discussed, strap 14 becomes enclosed within pouch 24 when cover 10 is placed on all-terrain vehicle 12 (as shown in FIG. 4B). If desired, other items can also be stored within pouch 24. For example, the user may wish to store ammunition, tools, clothing, or a variety of other items. Pouch 24 is also equipped with a zipper 32 for closing the opening 34 to pouch 24. Zipper 32 provides just one example of mechanism for closing opening 34. Using teachings disclosed herein, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that a variety of mechanisms for securing the closure of opening 34 may be used. By way of example only, Velcro™, snaps, buttons, and numerous other mechanisms may be also used.

[0029] Referring now to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, pouch 24 is constructed from an enclosure wall 36 having an inner edge 38 and an outer edge 40. Inner edge 38 is attached to canopy 22 while outer edge 40 is attached to a top flap 42. This configuration of pouch 24 facilitates the manufacture of cover 10 from precut pieces of material. The size of pouch 24 can be varied depending on the volume of storage space provided. However, pouch 24 should remain large enough to accept canopy 22 but small enough to form a cushion (if desired) when canopy 22 is folded into pouch 24. For the exemplary embodiment being discussed, pouch 24 is placed on canopy 22 at a position that provides ready access when in place on vehicle 12. This is illustrated, by way of example only, in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

[0030] For the purposes of this description, FIG. 7 shows cover 10 as it would appear if spread over a flat surface. Canopy 22 is constructed from a first side panel 44, a second side panel 46, and a middle panel 48. These panels are stitched or otherwise connected together along edges 50 and 52. FIG. 7 depicts only one example of how canopy 22 may be constructed. Using the teachings disclosed herein, one of skill in the art will understand that numerous variations can be envisioned for the construction of canopy 22 that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0031] Accordingly, this exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a cover 10 having a variety of uses as will now be discussed. As shown in FIG. 8, strap 14 allows sportsman 18 to transport cover 10 by positioning strap 14 around his waist. Optionally, strap 14 could be placed over a shoulder or simply used as a handle for carrying cover 10. Upon arriving at the desired location, cover 10 then provides a comfortable seat or cushion for sportsmen 18 as depicted in FIG. 9. Where cover 10 is made from water resistant or waterproof material, cover 10 may also provide a dry seat on an otherwise wet ground or surface.

[0032] Alternatively, cover 10 may be used as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B to protect all-terrain vehicle 12 from the elements and, if desired, to also provide camouflage. Upon removing strap 14 from vehicle 12, canopy 22 may be removed from pouch 24 and unfolded onto and over vehicle 12. As previously discussed, drawstring 26 and locks 30 may be used to secure the cover 10 in place. Various items may also then be stored in pouch 24. Upon returning to the vehicle 12, canopy 22 is then folded or placed back into pouch 24 for convenient transport and storage. In this way, pouch 24 serves as a reversible pocket—providing a pocket for the pouch in one configuration. As shown in FIG. 1, cover 10 may also provide a seat cushion for use on the vehicle 12 if desired.

[0033] It should be understood that cover 10 is presented by way of example only. Numerous variations or modifications may be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention. By way of example only, cover 10 may be provided in different sizes and shapes, with or without camouflage, and having different configurations for pouch 24. Also, while the exemplary embodiment was discussed using figures depicting a hunter, the present invention may be used in conjunction with any application of an all-terrain vehicle including, for example, fishing, riding, and many others uses.

[0034] Therefore, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the cover as described herein, without departing from the scope and spirit of the claims. It is intended that the invention include such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A versatile cover for an all-terrain vehicle, comprising: a canopy, configured for covering the vehicle when parked; and a pouch, attached to said canopy, for enclosing said canopy when it is not being used as a cover, said pouch comprising: an enclosure wall, having an inner edge and an outer edge, said inner edge being fastened to the canopy; a top flap attached to at least part of the outer edge of said enclosure wall, so as to form said pouch while creating an opening to the interior of said pouch; and closure means, connected to said enclosure wall and said top flap, for closing the opening to said pouch.
 2. A versatile cover for an all-terrain vehicle as in claim 1, wherein said closure means is a zipper.
 3. A versatile cover for an all-terrain vehicle as in claim 1, further comprising a strap attached to said pouch and configured for carrying or securing the cover.
 4. A versatile cover for an all-terrain vehicle as in claim 1, wherein said closure means is a hook and loop type fastener.
 5. A multi-purpose cover for a vehicle, comprising: a drape having a first side panel, a second side panel, and middle panel, with the middle panel having at least two edges, wherein one such edge is attached to the first side panel and one such edge is attached to the second side panel; and a pouch, attached to said drape, for receipt of the drape when it is not being used to cover the vehicle, said pouch comprising: an outer wall, having an inner edge and an outer edge, the inner edge being attached to the drape such that said drape defines a back wall of said pouch; a top panel attached to at least part of the outer edge of said outer wall, so as to form said pouch while creating an opening to the interior of said pouch; and means, connected to said outer wall and said top panel, for closing the opening to said pouch; wherein said drape may be folded into said pouch for transport, storage, or use as a seat.
 6. A multi-purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 5, further comprising a strap, connected to said outer wall, for carrying or securing the cover.
 7. A multi-purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 6, wherein said strap is connected to said outer wall.
 8. A multi-purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 5, wherein said means comprises a zipper.
 9. A multi-purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 5, further comprising a drawstring, attached to said drape, for securing the cover in place on the vehicle.
 10. A multi-purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 5, wherein said drape is constructed over a water-resistant material.
 11. A tarpaulin for an off-road vehicle, comprising: a cover having a front end section and a rear end section; a first drawstring attached to the front end section and configured for tightening said cover around the vehicle; a second drawstring attached to the rear end section and configured for tightening said cover around the vehicle; and a pouch attached to the cover, said pouch including a side portion and a top portion, the side portion having an inner edge and an outer edge, wherein the inner edge is connected to said cover and the outer edge is connected to said top portion and configured so as to provide an opening to the inside of said pouch.
 12. A covering for an off-road vehicle as in claim 11, comprising: a strap, connected to said side portion of said pouch, for carrying the tarpaulin or securing the tarpaulin to the vehicle.
 13. A covering for an off-road vehicle as in claim 11, wherein said tarpaulin is constructed from a water resistant material.
 14. A covering for an off-road vehicle as in claim 11, wherein said tarpaulin is constructed from a camouflaged material.
 15. A covering for an off-road vehicle as in claim 11, further comprising means for selectively closing the opening to the inside of said pouch.
 16. A dual purpose cover for a vehicle, comprising: a canopy constructed from a flexible material and configured for being placed over the vehicle; a reversible pocket, attached to the canopy, and having an opening through which the canopy may be inserted or removed; and means for securing the cover in place around the vehicle; wherein said canopy may be used as a cover or may be folded into said reversible pocket and used as a seat.
 17. A dual purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 16, further comprising a zipper, attached to said reversible pocket, and configured for selectively closing the opening thereto.
 18. A dual purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 16, wherein said means for securing the cover in place around the vehicle comprises at least one drawstring attached to the canopy.
 19. A dual purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 16, further comprising means for transporting the cover, said means being attached to said reversible pocket.
 20. A dual purpose cover for a vehicle as in claim 16, further comprising hook and loop fasteners configured for selectively closing the opening of said reversible pocket.
 21. A seat cushion, comprising: a tarp configured for covering an all-terrain vehicle; a pocket, attached to said tarp, said pocket having an opening for receipt of said tarp, said pocket being attached to said tarp along at least one edge of said pocket; and means for closing said opening to said pocket, said means being attached to said pocket; whereby said tarp may be folded into said pocket so as to form the seat cushion. 